‘Jeopardy’ Host Alex Trebek is Battling Pancreatic Cancer

While the odds may not be ever in his favor, Jeopardy host Alex Trebek hopes to beat pancreatic cancer.

s_bukley / Shutterstock.com

The game show host has been a fixture of American living rooms for well over 30 years. Now, he’s been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer and is battling the odds. On average, the survival rate is incredibly low.

Trebek’s Announcement

“Just like 50,000 other people in the United States each year, this week, I was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer,” Trekek said in a video.

“Now, normally, the prognosis for this is not very encouraging, but I’m going to fight this, and I’m going to keep working,” he said. “And with the love and support of my family and friends and with the help of your prayers also, I plan to beat the low survival rates statistics for this disease.”

The survival rates are quite low for pancreatic cancer. At stage 4, there’s a one percent chance that he will survive another five years. On average, patients with this diagnosis live an average of twelve to fifteen months.

Trebek, however, wants to beat the odds and fulfil his contract to continue hosting Jeopardy until 2022.

A Host’s Legacy

Trebek has hosted Jeopardy since 1984, and in 2018 he renewed his contract to continue doing so until 2022. He has touched the lives of millions, not just as game show host, but as someone who’s transcended generational boundaries.

Soon after Trebek’s announcement, fellow game show host Pat Sajak voiced his support.

“The Sajak family is deeply saddened to hear of Alex Trebek’s struggle with cancer,” he tweeted. “Our hearts go out to him and his family. But there is no one I know who is stronger and more determined, and I would never bet against him.”

He continued, “We, and the entire country, are pulling for you, Alex.”

Tackling a Challenge

The prognosis may not be positive, but not only is Trebek determined, he also has leagues of support.

“If anyone can beat this it’s Alex,” said Sony Pictures Chairman Mike Hopkins. “He has our full support as he tackles this challenge head-on.”

Multiple former Jeopardy contestants have spoken out in support of Trebek as well.